Qatar is going to establish a strategy of supplying LNG as a marine fuel in Qatar and the other countries forming the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). In conjunction with this announcement, DNV GL is launching a new Recommended Practice (RP) on LNG Bunkering.
There is no longer any doubt that LNG will become one of the major shipping fuels. A few weeks ago, the milestone of 100 LNG-fuelled ships either already operating or as confirmed newbuilds was passed. Qatar is the largest exporter of LNG globally and its plans to supply LNG to the marine industry will only stimulate its use for ships.
Recommended Practice for LNG Bunkering
Yet, DNV GL feels the development of international standardisation has lagged behind. The first step in addressing that gap was the publication of the ISO Committee’s draft guideline on LNG Bunkering in June 2013. As a further development and on the basis of the ISO principles, DNV GL has prepared a Recommended Practice (RP) for LNG Bunkering, to establish the guidelines and recommendations required to protect people and the environment during the development and operation of LNG bunker facilities.
The achievement of safe and reliable operations is based on international laws and standards, practices in similar industries and DNV GL’s experience in the LNG value chain. The RP provides an internationally accepted starting point for any development and safe operation of bunkering facilities.
LNG for Long-Haul Trade
DNV GL expects the market to develop and that the ship types using LNG will increase from short-sea to long-haul trade. There will also be a greater need for harmonisation to ensure safety and efficiency in the bunkering process worldwide. DNV GL hopes the RP will be a useful tool for building the necessary regulatory framework to ensure safe and reliable bunkering operations.
Picture: The LNG Rivers (by Pline, Wikipedia).
